Cramps and Braxton Hicks

July 27, 2016

The different aches and pains during pregnancy can be a bit disconcerting, but tummy cramps and Braxton Hicks are all completely normal.

Cramps

Tummy cramps during pregnancy can be painful, but don’t worry, in most cases it’s just your ligaments stretching to make room for your growing uterus. Try lying down and putting your feet up. A hot water bottle or wheat bag on the cramp may help, or even a warm bath. If you can walk it off, do. If there is heavy spotting/vomiting/fever as well, call your LMC immediately. Cramp or backache during sex can also happen – in this case, soft and slow wins the race.

Braxton Hicks

These are intermittent painless contractions that can occur in the latter half of pregnancy. Some women find them quite uncomfortable. The difference between these contractions and true labour pains is that they are usually felt only in the front, and do not get longer, stronger and more frequent. First-time mothers often do not experience Braxton Hicks at all.